6 easy day walks in Austria's Alps

1. Discover plant life in Zell am See-Kaprun

In search of natural beauty? You've come to the right place. Immerse yourself in the glorious flora and fauna of the Herbal Path in Austria’s Zell am See-Kaprun region. This trail, which takes around 45 minutes each way to complete, runs alongside parts of the Hohe Tauern mountain range. Along this route you’ll find an abundance of plants and flowers, as well as views of the hilly countryside, mountain reservoirs, and the Glockner group – a sub-group of mountains nearby.

Along this path you’ll also pass the Steinernes Meer, an intriguing geological site also known as the ‘sea of stones’ – beds of cracked rocks that sprawl across the landscape. The altitude on this walk only changes for a maximum of 237 metres, making it an easy stroll and suitable for adults and children alike.

2. Go trekking with a llama

Hiking in Austria is one thing, but hiking in Austria with a llama in tow is a whole different experience. This fun alternative allows you to explore the beautiful region of Zell am See-Kaprun with a furry friend. Hikers lead their llamas on a gentle strolls through the mountains; the gradient is untroublesome and the llamas carry your load for you.

Llama trekking is an ideal activity for families. Children are more than welcome on these walks, and it could be a successful way to engage a child that’s otherwise disenchanted with the idea of hiking. Walk lengths range from just a couple of hours up to two-day tours.

3. Amble your way to Lechner Waterfall

An easy stroll along a relatively flat path, the walk to Lechner Waterfall in Austria’s Kitzbüheler Alpen region provides a readily accessible way to experience the great outdoors. The hike starts and finishes in the quaint village of Wörgl, running alongside a mountain slope for a distance of around 4.4km. At a gentle pace this walk usually takes around two hours in total.

Lechner Waterfall shoots off the side of a cliff face; a mesmerising sight in the peaceful surroundings. As the walk is of a manageable gradient, this is an ideal family activity in the area – children will have no problem completing the hike.

4. Burrow through Kundl Gorge

The trail through Kundl Gorge in Wildschönau is a spectacular place for a summer stroll. One of the most popular walks here takes you across blossoming meadows then tunnels through the gorge’s jagged scenery. Walls of rock line sections of the path, and on this hike you’ll also pass the valley’s surging white water rapids.

This trek is suitable for walkers of all ages, but if you’d prefer to take it easy there is also a Wildschönau Slow Train – otherwise known as the ‘Bummelzug’ – which runs from around mid-April to mid-October (check times beforehand as dates vary year-on-year). This little shuttle stops off at various spots along the valley, and as it only reaches a top speed of 10kmph, there’s ample opportunity to take in the natural scenery from your seat.

5. Explore the historical town of Kitzbühel

Fancy a taking a break from steep mountain scenery? Give your thighs a rest on a walk through the town of Kitzbühel. This settlement is nestled at the foot of the Alps of the same name, and back in the Middle Ages it was known for silver and copper mining. Today, it’s one of the most popular bases for travellers coming to ski in Austria.

Historical walks through the town are organised by the region and run from around June to September. Led by local guides, these meanders take you through the picturesque streets and help you to understand Kitzbühel’s humble roots.

6. Marvel at the Senns Wonder Walking Trail

Fun, interactive, and a little bit kooky, the Senns Wonder Walking Trail in St. Anton am Arlberg makes for one of the best family days out in the Tyrolean Alps. The award-winning route runs through herb gardens, meadows and forests, with information points littered along the way to help all the family learn about the surrounding natural beauty.